If you’re applying to IE University, you’ve probably heard about the IE Admissions Test—a unique assessment designed to evaluate your skills beyond just academics. Unlike the SAT, this test focuses on logical thinking, memory, problem-solving, and adaptability in a fast-paced, gamified format.
To help you feel more prepared, we’ve answered 20 common questions about the test, so you know exactly what to expect. Let’s dive in!
- What is the IE University Admissions Test?
The IE Admissions Test is a skills-based exam designed by IE University to assess your cognitive abilities, problem-solving skills, and learning efficiency, rather than just academic knowledge.
2. Do I need to take the IE Admissions Test?
Not necessarily! If you have strong SAT or ACT scores, you may not need to take it. However, if you don’t have standardized test scores or want an alternative, the IE Admissions Test is a great option. Check IE’s requirements to be sure.
Many students applying to IE take the SAT. While IE’s minimum SAT score is 1200, many students have over 1300. If you can use the SAT to apply to other universities on your list, then it’s worth preparing and taking the SAT multiple times. We’ve written about how to prepare for the IE Admissions Test if you already prepared for the SAT. If not, consider just preparing for and taking the IE Test. The tests are totally different, so preparing for one won’t really prepare you for the other.
3. Is the IE Admissions Test difficult?
It’s different from regular tests! Instead of academic knowledge, it tests your logical reasoning, memory, and quick thinking—so preparation is more about practicing cognitive skills than studying textbooks.
But…
You do need to have good number sense, know how to calculate percentages and fractions quickly, and be good at estimating relative amounts.
4. How long does the test take?
The entire test takes around 90 minutes (but usually less) to complete, covering logical reasoning, memory, numerical skills, and verbal abilities.
5. Is the test multiple-choice?
Kind of. The numerical and verbal reasoning sections are true/false/not given.
The other sections require interactive responses—for example, filling in patterns, remembering sequences, or solving math problems without a calculator.
6. Can I prepare for the IE Admissions Test?
Yes! While there’s no official study guide, you can practice with logic puzzles, memory exercises, fast-paced math drills, and vocabulary-building games to strengthen your cognitive skills. Check out our recommendations on how to prepare.
Alternatively, you can hire us to help you prepare! We’ve developed custom materials, including strategy notes, homework, and practice tests to ensure our students are ready for the test. We also have the latest intel from other students who have taken the test. Hint: One of the sections changed and it’s not updated on IE’s website.
Check out our IE Tutoring options and then book a FREE consultation!
7. Do I need a calculator for the math section?
You can use your on screen calculator, but it’s more likely to slow you down. The test is designed to assess mental math skills, so you should be able to estimate or do rough calculations quickly if you have practiced.
8. What topics are covered in the math section?
The numerical reasoning includes:
- Graph and data interpretation
- Quick numerical calculations
- Bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts, tables, and more
9. Is the IE University Admissions Test the same as the ieGAT?
The IE University Admissions Test and the ieGAT are two DIFFERENT tests. The IE University Admissions Test is for students who are applying to undergraduate programs, while the IE Global Admissions Test (ieGAT) is for students applying to graduate programs, most notably the Masters in Business Administration (MBA).
If you’re applying for IE undergrad, don’t use the ieGAT materials or websites to prepare because they won’t help you.
10. Are there any sample tests and practice questions to help me prepare for the IE Test?
Not really. We’ve developed custom materials, including sample tests and practice questions to ensure our students are ready for the test. We also have the latest intel from other students who have taken the test. WhatsApp us if you’re interested in private tutoring.
11. Is there a written assessment or essay on the IE University Admissions Test?
There is no written assessment or essay on the IE University Admissions Test.
12. Is there an English section on the test?
Yes! The verbal reasoning section tests your reading comprehension by presenting you with information about a company and requiring you to respond true/false/not given to specific statements.
13. What are the gamified challenges?
These are four interactive mini-games that test your adaptability, problem-solving speed, and cognitive flexibility in a fun, engaging way.
14. Can I retake the IE Admissions Test if I don’t do well?
No! You only have one shot at the IE Test, so it’s best to prepare well and aim to do your best.
15. Is the test taken online or in person?
The test is taken online from home, but you’ll need a stable internet connection, a webcam, and a quiet environment.
16. How is the test scored?
We don’t know because you don’t receive a score. Only the admissions department sees your results. Instead of a traditional score, the test evaluates your skills holistically, and your results are considered along with your grades, essays, and interview in the admissions process.
17. What happens if I perform poorly on one section?
Don’t stress! The test is designed to assess a combination of skills, so a weaker section won’t necessarily ruin your chances if you perform well overall.
18. How can I improve my chances of doing well?
- Practice logic puzzles to improve pattern recognition
- Do rapid-fire math exercises without a calculator
- Try memory games to sharpen recall speed
- Read and write regularly to enhance verbal skills
Check out our specific recommendations for how to prepare for the IE University Admissions Test.
Alternatively, you can hire us to help you prepare! We’ve developed custom materials, including strategy notes, homework, and practice tests to ensure our students are ready for the test. We also have the latest intel from other students who have taken the test. Hint: One of the sections changed and it’s not updated on IE’s website.
Check out our IE Tutoring options and then book a FREE consultation!
19. Do all IE University programs require the test?
The undergraduate programs do, but some students may be admitted based on SAT, ACT, or other standardized test scores instead..
20. Where can I get more help preparing?
We offer one-on-one tutoring and admissions coaching to help you feel fully prepared for the IE Admissions Test. If you want expert guidance and practice materials, WhatsApp us today!
